Chainsaw Tensioner Not Working: [Proven Ways To Fix]

As a chainsaw owner, there are few things more frustrating than a tensioner that isn’t working properly. A chainsaw that is too loose can be dangerous, while a chainsaw that is too tight can damage the chain and make it difficult to use. If you’re experiencing problems with your chainsaw tensioner, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue and resolve it quickly to restore functionality to your tool.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of troubleshooting a chainsaw tensioner that isn’t working. We’ll cover common causes of the problem, as well as steps you can take to fix it. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to diagnose and resolve the issue quickly and easily, so you can get back to using your chainsaw without any further trouble.

Most Common Reasons Why Chainsaw Tensioner Not Working

Most Common Reasons Why Chainsaw Tensioner Not Working

1. Loose or damaged chain

If the chain is loose or damaged, it will not be able to stay tight on the bar and will cause the chainsaw tensioner to work harder than it needs to. To check if the chain is loose, try to move it up and down on the bar. If it moves more than a few millimeters, it is too loose and needs to be tightened. To check if the chain is damaged, look for any cracks, chips, or missing links. If the chain is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

2. Worn-out tensioner spring

The tensioner spring is what keeps the chain tight on the bar. If the spring is worn out, it will not be able to provide enough tension and the chain will become loose. To check if the spring is worn out, try to compress it with your fingers. If it is difficult to compress, it is probably still good. If it is easy to compress, it needs to be replaced.

3. Clogged oiler hole

The oiler hole is what lubricates the chain. If the hole is clogged, the chain will not be able to get enough oil and will wear out faster. To check if the oiler hole is clogged, try to blow through it with a can of compressed air. If you can’t blow through it, it is clogged and needs to be cleaned.

4. Misaligned chain

If the chain is not aligned properly on the bar, it will not be able to stay tight and will cause the chainsaw tensioner to work harder than it needs to. To check if the chain is aligned properly, look at the guide bar rails. The chain should be running parallel to the rails. If it is not, it needs to be aligned.

5. Bent bar

If the bar is bent, it will not be able to hold the chain tight and will cause the chainsaw tensioner to work harder than it needs to. To check if the bar is bent, try to sight down the bar. If it is not straight, it needs to be replaced.

How to Troubleshoot: Chainsaw Tensioner Not Working

Symptoms of a Chainsaw Tensioner Not Working

There are a few symptoms that can indicate that your chainsaw tensioner is not working properly. These include:

The chain is loose and slipping off the guide bar.
The chain is too tight and difficult to turn.
The chain makes a rattling noise when it is running.
The chain is jumping off the guide bar.

Causes of a Chainsaw Tensioner Not Working

There are a few different things that can cause a chainsaw tensioner to not work properly. These include:

A worn-out tensioner spring. The tensioner spring is responsible for keeping the chain tight. If the spring is worn out, it will not be able to do its job properly and the chain will become loose.
A damaged tensioner arm. The tensioner arm is responsible for applying pressure to the chain. If the arm is damaged, it will not be able to do its job properly and the chain will become loose.
A dirty or clogged tensioner. The tensioner can become dirty or clogged with sawdust and other debris. This can prevent the tensioner from working properly and the chain will become loose.

How to Troubleshoot a Chainsaw Tensioner

To troubleshoot a chainsaw tensioner, you will need to:

1. Inspect the tensioner spring. Look for any signs of wear or damage. If the spring is worn out or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
2. Inspect the tensioner arm. Look for any signs of damage or wear. If the arm is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
3. Clean the tensioner. Use a brush or air compressor to clean the tensioner of any sawdust or debris.
4. Adjust the tensioner. If the tensioner is not properly adjusted, it can cause the chain to become loose. To adjust the tensioner, follow the instructions in your chainsaw owner’s manual.

Preventing Chainsaw Tensioner Problems

You can help prevent chainsaw tensioner problems by:

Regularly inspecting the tensioner. Inspect the tensioner for any signs of wear or damage on a regular basis. This will help you catch problems early on and prevent them from becoming worse.
Keeping the tensioner clean. Keep the tensioner clean of sawdust and debris. This will help the tensioner work properly and prevent it from becoming damaged.
Adjusting the tensioner properly. Make sure the tensioner is properly adjusted. This will help prevent the chain from becoming loose or too tight.

By following these tips, you can help keep your chainsaw tensioner working properly and prevent problems from occurring.

FAQs: Chainsaw Tensioner Not Working

Why is my chainsaw tensioner not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your chainsaw tensioner may not be working. Here are some of the most common causes:

The tensioner is not properly adjusted. If the tensioner is not adjusted correctly, it will not be able to properly tighten the chain. This can cause the chain to become loose and fall off the saw, or it can cause the chain to become too tight and damage the saw.
The tensioner spring is broken. The tensioner spring is responsible for applying tension to the chain. If the spring is broken, the tensioner will not be able to properly tighten the chain.
The tensioner is worn out. Over time, the tensioner can wear out and become unable to properly tighten the chain. This is especially common if the saw is used frequently or if it is not properly maintained.

How do I adjust the chainsaw tensioner?

To adjust the chainsaw tensioner, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Locate the tensioner. The tensioner is usually located on the side of the chainsaw, near the chain.
2. Turn the tensioner screw. The tensioner screw is usually a small, hex-head screw. Turn the screw clockwise to tighten the chain, and counterclockwise to loosen the chain.
3. Check the chain tension. After you have adjusted the tensioner, check the chain tension by pulling on the chain. The chain should be tight enough so that it does not fall off the saw, but not so tight that it is difficult to move.

How do I replace the chainsaw tensioner spring?

To replace the chainsaw tensioner spring, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Remove the old spring. The old spring is usually held in place by a small clip. Use a small screwdriver to pry the clip loose and remove the spring.
2. Install the new spring. The new spring should be the same size and shape as the old spring. Insert the new spring into the tensioner and secure it with the clip.
3. Adjust the chain tension. After you have installed the new spring, adjust the chain tension according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

How do I prevent my chainsaw tensioner from breaking?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your chainsaw tensioner from breaking:

Adjust the chain tension regularly. If the chain is too tight, it can damage the tensioner. If the chain is too loose, it can come off the saw.
Use high-quality chains and bar oil. Using high-quality chains and bar oil will help to extend the life of your chainsaw tensioner.
Maintain your chainsaw regularly. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating the saw, will help to keep your chainsaw in good condition and prevent damage to the tensioner.

What should I do if my chainsaw tensioner is still not working?

If your chainsaw tensioner is still not working after you have tried to adjust it, you may need to replace the tensioner. If you are not comfortable replacing the tensioner yourself, you can take your saw to a qualified chainsaw repair shop.

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